Bridgit Mendler launches outer space communications startup

Actress Bridgit Mendler, founder of Northwood, announced $6.3 million in funding, aims to build a data highway between earth and space.

Bridgit Mendler, known for her roles on Disney's Good Luck Charlie and Wizards of Waverly Place, has embarked on a new venture as a co-founder of Northwood, an organization with a mission to build "a data highway between earth and space." Along with her husband, Griffin Cleverly, and engineer Shaurya Luthra, Mendler announced that Northwood has received $6.3 million in funding to support their groundbreaking work.

The vision for Northwood is ambitious, with the goal of creating shared ground infrastructure to expand access to space. Mendler expressed her excitement for the work ahead, emphasizing that building a data highway between earth and space is the organization's primary focus.

Mendler's journey to the world of space technology began after her success as an actress and singer. She pursued higher education, earning a master's and doctorate of philosophy from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, as well as a doctorate of law from Harvard Law School. Her interest in space law was sparked during her time at the Federal Communications Commission's Space Bureau, where she developed a passion for the complexities of space data transmission.

Cleverly and Luthra also bring valuable expertise to Northwood, with experience at Lockheed Martin, the Mitre Corporation, and Capella Space. Mendler's transition from the entertainment industry to the world of space technology demonstrates her dedication to pursuing new challenges and making a meaningful impact in a rapidly evolving field.

While Mendler's acting and music career has been on hold since her last release in 2017, her commitment to Northwood's mission reflects her passion for innovation and exploration. With a background in entertainment and a newfound focus on space technology, Mendler's journey exemplifies the potential for individuals to pursue diverse interests and contribute to groundbreaking advancements in science and technology.